Student Resources

ACT Gateway Resources for Students

ACT Gateway

ACT Gateway is the secure testing browser used to take the National online test. Using your MyACT Credentials, ACT Gateway also supports critical pre-test activities to ensure readiness to test. This application must be installed on your computer ahead of your desired test day in order to successfully take the test. ACT will provide communications for these important deadlines. You have the option to bring either a Personal computer or School Managed computer.

Supported Computers

 

Personal Computer

A personal computer is any computer that you own or have exclusive use of.

You should have the ability to manage and install applications on this laptop.

 
 

School Managed Computer

A school-managed computer is a computer provided by a school for students or staff to use. These computers are typically managed by the school's IT department, which controls software installation, network access, and other settings.

How do you know if your computer is school managed?

Chromebook

Check here.

*Note: All chromebooks will need assistance with the school to install ACT Gateway through Google Admin.

Windows

Go to Accounts > Access work or school, and if you see a school email address listed, your computer is likely school-managed.

MacBook

Go to System Settings > General > Device Management and look for the line: "This Mac is supervised and managed by [Organization name]".

Download ACT Gateway

ACT Gateway is currently supported on Chromebook, Windows, and Mac computers.

  • Your computer must be connected to Wi-Fi, fully charged and meet the minimum requirements.
  • Personal computers can access and install ACT Gateway from the Windows Store or Apple Store.
  • Chromebooks and other school managed computers will need to have the school administrators install the application.

How to Perform Device Checks

Open ACT Gateway and log in with your MyACT credentials.

Register your device and press the button to Run Device Check, which ensures your computer is optimized for test day.

Important: Device checks must be completed by the device readiness cutoff date or you may be unable to test on your laptop.

To perform device readiness checks, after downloading the application select “I am a member of the testing staff” 

Register the device and press the button to Run Device Check

2024-2025 National Test Dates Schedule 

Test Date
Registration Deadline
Device Readiness Cutoff Date
April 5, 2025 February 28 March 27
June 14, 2025 May 9 June 5
July 12, 2025 June 6 July 3

2025-2026 National Test Dates Schedule 

Test Date
Registration Deadline
Device Readiness Cutoff Date
September 6, 2025 August 1 August 29
October 18, 2025 September 12 October 10
December 13, 2025 November 7 December 5
February 14, 2026 January 7 February 6
April 11, 2026 March 6 April 3
June 13, 2026 May 8 June 5
July 11, 2026 June 5 July 3
 

ACT Gateway FAQ

Students testing online will have the option to bring their own computer or a school-managed computer to a test site to take the ACT test.

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The ACT Gateway application is currently supported on Windows, Chromebook, and Macbook computers.

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During the December test administration, the bring your own device option will be supported at select test centers. If you’re assigned to a selected test center, ACT will notify you.

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iPads and tablets are not supported at this time. Stay tuned for more information about Mac support in the future.

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Once you have determined the type of laptop you will be using, personal or school-managed, you will need to install the ACT Gateway application and ensure the device meets all requirements. You will need support from your school if you are using a school-managed device.

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You will need to bring your supported computer that has ACT Gateway installed and is fully charged as well as a Photo ID.

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...or perform the device readiness checks?

No. You must install the application and ensure the computer passes the device checks or you will not be able to test on test day.

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Yes. Learn more about the process to request accommodations or English Learner (EL) supports.

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No, the test is administered in English so the computer must be configured to match.

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We recommend ensuring your computer has sufficient charge and bringing a charger in case it is needed.

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You will need to communicate with the Room Supervisor and Technical Coordinator on test day and escalate to ACT if you require further support or troubleshooting.

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Yes. Regardless of whether a student tests on paper or online, the timing is the same.

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No. On test day, you must be connected to the wifi network your test center provides.

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Failure to bring your computer could impact your ability to test on test day. Test centers may not have additional computers.

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What's Next?

Find up-to-date test ACT Test Enhancement information and FAQs.